District Newsletter

Dear USD 243 Parents and Guardians,

As we prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, I wanted to remind you that July 1 marked the effective date of Kansas House Bill 2299 (HB 2299), which establishes new requirements for student communication devices in Kansas schools.

For purposes of USD 243 policy, student communication devices include any personal electronic device that can send, receive, or access electronic communication. This includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, smartphones, smart watches, tablets, earbuds, headphones, and any Bluetooth-enabled or internet-capable personal device.

Earlier this summer, we shared that the law requires school districts to adopt policies and procedures for student communication devices during the school day, including designating a location where student communication devices will be stored and not accessible to students during the school day.

The USD 243 Board of Education has already adopted the required board policy. Our administrative team is now finalizing the student handbook language that outlines the day-to-day expectations and procedures for student communication devices. This handbook language will be approved at the July Board of Education Meeting.

Once approved, the handbook procedures will be shared with all families prior to the start of the school year. Our goal is to provide clear and consistent expectations while ensuring compliance with state law and supporting learning environments with fewer distractions and greater student focus.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we prepare for another successful school year. We appreciate your cooperation as we implement these new state requirements.

Sincerely,

Dustin Wilson, Superintendent